Ladder Safety

Ladders are a very useful tool to access items or areas beyond our reach. They can
also be very dangerous if not used correctly. It is important to select the correct
ladder length and type of ladder for the task to be performed. Ladders come in different
lengths, weight limits, and they come in wood, aluminum, and fiber glass. Never choose
an aluminum ladder for any kind of electrical work, or when working close to a live
uninsulated electrical line. Ladders have a duty rating from light duty up to extra
heavy duty and a weight capacity of 200 pounds up to 375 pounds. Weight capacity
includes the weight of worker plus any tools or materials that would be on the ladder.

Inspected all ladders before each use for cracks, loose rungs, missing parts, slippery
surfaces, and stability. On extension ladders check the rope and pulley mechanism
and locking supports. If the ladder does not pass inspection tag out and do not use.
When placing the ladder for a job do not block doorways or any means of egress. If
work must be done in a busy area barricade around ladder. Place on firm, stable
and level ground or surface. Ladders should not be placed on boxes, barrels, back
of a pickup truck, or other unstable bases. When using extension ladders the top
of the ladder must be three feet beyond the landing. Each section of the extension
ladder must overlap three feet for ladders up to 32 feet, by four feet for ladders
32 feet to 48 feet and by five feet for ladders 48 to 60 feet in length. . The base
of the ladder should be one foot from the building for every four feet of ladder length
extending up to the resting position.

Face the ladder when ascending or descending and maintain three points of contact;
either two hands and a foot, or two feet and one hand. Wear a tool belt to transport
tools or pull them up with a line once at work location. Do not over extend your
reach while on the ladder, maintain centered between rails. There should be on one
person on a ladder at any given time. Do not jump the ladder from location to location,
descend and reposition ladder. The top two steps and platform of a stepladder are
not for working from. Lower an extension ladder before moving from one location to
another. Never use a ladder when you feel dizzy or light headed. Do not twist backwards
or raise up on the balls of your feet to gain an extra inch or so.

Store ladders in a dry space that is well ventilated and away from heat and moisture.
If stored horizontally, support the ladder at several points to avoid sagging. Store
ladders where they can be easily accessed and where they can be inspected.

When transporting a ladder that is light enough to manage comfortably hold the ladder
by the middle of one of the siderails with the front tipped slightly up. Make certain
the front and back ends of the ladder do not swing into anything or anyone. For longer
heavier ladders get help with transporting, set up, and while on the ladder.

Remember ladders can be a useful tool but if a ladder can not be placed in a position
where the job can be done safely other options are available.